February 14, 2005

The Department of Environmental Quality presents the “Dam Safety 2005 Workshop: Testing of Emergency Action Plans for Dams,” to be held at the Radisson Hotel in Lansing on March 29. This workshop will help owners and operators of dams better ensure that their Emergency Action Plan (EAP) will work in a time of crisis.

On May 14, 2003, an earthen section of the dam at the Silver Lake Basin in Marquette County failed, releasing nearly nine billion gallons of water to surge through Marquette County and the city of Marquette. Despite the nearly $100 million in damage that resulted, there was no loss of life or major injuries. A major factor in the lack of fatalities or major injuries was the preparation and testing of an EAP for the dam.

Workshop attendees will have an opportunity to talk directly with the DEQ and Michigan State Police staff in developing plans for exercising their EAP. If you own or operate a dam, are a consultant who provides assistance to dam owners, or are an emergency management official with dams in your jurisdiction, you will benefit from this workshop.

The registration cost of $75 includes continental breakfast, lunch, and workshop materials. Register by March 7, for the Early Bird registration fee of $50. Register online at www.michigan.gov/deqworkshops and click on “Upcoming Workshops.” For registration information, contact the DEQ, Environmental Assistance Center at 1-800-662-9278; or e-mail, at deq-ead-env-assist@michigan.gov.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

Revised February 14, 2005 by Pat Watson